KS3 ICT | Data storage - databases organised into fields

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ICT Quiz - Data Storage 02 (Questions)

Learn how computers keep files safe even after shutdown. Compare storage devices, why speed and capacity matter, and how backups stop homework and photos disappearing.

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Fascinating Fact:

Secondary storage keeps data long term, like hard drives, SSDs, and USB memory sticks, even when the power is off.

In KS3 ICT, data storage is about where files and programs live when you are not using them. You will learn why some storage is faster than others, how capacity affects what you can save, and why backups help prevent data loss.

Key Terms

Secondary storage: Permanent storage used to save files and software, such as an internal drive, external drive, memory card, or USB stick.
SSD (solid-state drive): A storage device with no moving parts, often quicker and more durable than older spinning drives.
Backup: A copied version of data stored in another place so it can be restored if the original is deleted, damaged, or lost.

Frequently Asked Questions (Click to see answers)

What is secondary storage in KS3 ICT?

Secondary storage is where a computer saves data permanently, including documents, photos, and installed programs. It still keeps the data when the device is switched off.

Why does a computer need storage if it has RAM?

RAM only holds data while the computer is running, so it clears when power is off. Storage is needed to keep files and programs so they are available next time you turn it on.

What is the difference between an SSD and a hard drive?

An SSD stores data using memory chips and usually loads files faster. A hard drive uses spinning disks, often offers more space for the price, but can be slower and easier to damage.

Try These Related Quizzes

Data can be very valuable so needs storing on .......

[ ]	flash drives
[ ]	hard discs
[ ]	DVD or CD-ROM
[ ]	any of the above

Which of these is not a good way of protecting data?

[ ]	Storing it on a CD-ROM and copying to magnetic tape
[ ]	Storing it on one flash drive and copying to a second
[ ]	Storing it on a hard disc alone
[ ]	Storing it on a hard disc and copying to a flash drive

Which is not an accidental loss of data?

[ ]	Loss caused by a hard disk drive failing
[ ]	Loss caused by an attack by a computer virus
[ ]	Loss caused by an unintentional deletion
[ ]	Loss caused by fire damage

People illegally viewing or changing computer systems .......

[ ]	are called hackers
[ ]	are called hawkers
[ ]	are called hikers
[ ]	work for MI5

What is meant by a 'flat file' database?

[ ]	It is a database split into several separate data files
[ ]	It is a database using a single table for all records
[ ]	It is a database without any records
[ ]	It is a relational database which has been squashed

Which is most suitable for use as a flat file database?

[ ]	Graphics editor
[ ]	Spreadsheet
[ ]	Web browser
[ ]	Word processor

A spreadsheet can be used as a flat file database if .......

[ ]	all the fields of one record occupy one spreadsheet row
[ ]	each field is no more than 128 characters long
[ ]	it doesn't contain any other text or formulae
[ ]	no more than 10,000 records will be stored

Queries allow you to ....... in a database.

[ ]	select and update fields
[ ]	select, filter and update fields
[ ]	select, sort and filter fields
[ ]	sort, filter and update fields

Printed output from a database is called a .......

[ ]	result
[ ]	response
[ ]	report
[ ]	retort

10.

Making copies of data in case of a data loss is called .......

[ ]	getting your back up
[ ]	making a back-up
[ ]	making a stuff up
[ ]	putting your feet up

ICT Quiz - Data Storage 02 (Answers)

Data can be very valuable so needs storing on .......

[ ]	flash drives
[ ]	hard discs
[ ]	DVD or CD-ROM
[x]	any of the above

Whatever seems most suitable in the circumstances

Which of these is not a good way of protecting data?

[ ]	Storing it on a CD-ROM and copying to magnetic tape
[ ]	Storing it on one flash drive and copying to a second
[x]	Storing it on a hard disc alone
[ ]	Storing it on a hard disc and copying to a flash drive

Not making a second copy of valuable data is a serious error

Which is not an accidental loss of data?

[ ]	Loss caused by a hard disk drive failing
[x]	Loss caused by an attack by a computer virus
[ ]	Loss caused by an unintentional deletion
[ ]	Loss caused by fire damage

Viruses are deliberate attacks

People illegally viewing or changing computer systems .......

[x]	are called hackers
[ ]	are called hawkers
[ ]	are called hikers
[ ]	work for MI5

There are various reasons why hackers break into computer systems - it is often done as part of a criminal activity

What is meant by a 'flat file' database?

[ ]	It is a database split into several separate data files
[x]	It is a database using a single table for all records
[ ]	It is a database without any records
[ ]	It is a relational database which has been squashed

Often saved as a CSV (comma separated variable) text file

Which is most suitable for use as a flat file database?

[ ]	Graphics editor
[x]	Spreadsheet
[ ]	Web browser
[ ]	Word processor

Flat file databases are best used where the amount of data is not too large

A spreadsheet can be used as a flat file database if .......

[x]	all the fields of one record occupy one spreadsheet row
[ ]	each field is no more than 128 characters long
[ ]	it doesn't contain any other text or formulae
[ ]	no more than 10,000 records will be stored

In a relational database, the fields of one record can be spread between several tables

Queries allow you to ....... in a database.

[ ]	select and update fields
[ ]	select, filter and update fields
[x]	select, sort and filter fields
[ ]	sort, filter and update fields

Updating records might be done using a 'form'